Picture this. You’re standing before Saint George Catholic Church in Chicago. Its sturdy stone walls whisper tales of resilience. This isn’t just any church. It’s a testament to the unwavering spirit of a community.
Saint George Catholic Church holds a special place in Chicago’s history. It was settled by French Canadians in the mid-1800s. They named their new home after Saint George De’Henriville Canada their former home. They called it “Les Petit Isles” or “The Little Islands”. The area was prone to flooding. High spots looked like islands after the water receded.
The first church a small wooden structure was built in 1848. It was replaced several times. Bigger and better each time. A larger wooden chapel rose in 1854. Then a combination chapel and rectory in 1858. The congregation kept growing. Saint George became a thriving parish.
In 1869 a stone church was built. Sadly a tornado destroyed it months later. Undeterred the parishioners rebuilt. The outer walls of that 1872 church stand today. It was built from Kankakee River bed stone.
Then more hardships. Another tornado in the early 1900s damaged the church and cemetery. The beautiful carved woodwork and Stations of the Cross paintings were damaged. Repairs were made. Some lost tombstones were never replaced.
The church faced another devastating blow in 1959. A fire gutted the church. The roof collapsed the steeple fell in flames. Neighbors and firefighters battled the blaze. They saved nearby buildings. The church however was destroyed.
The parishioners never gave up. They raised funds. Under Father John Lynch’s leadership a new church emerged within the old stone walls. A new roof laminated arches replaced the old pillars. A new belfry and steeple were added. Bishop McNamara dedicated the new church in 1960.
Saint George Catholic Church continued its journey. In the 1990s plans for a new church began. Stained glass windows from St Mary’s church in Kankakee were acquired. In 2009 Father Dan Belanger raised funds for restoration. The windows were installed. A new organ enhances services. A new stained-glass window depicting Saint George was added in 2013.
As we stand here today we see more than just a building. We see the enduring faith of a community. Their perseverance through tornadoes fires and hardship. Saint George Catholic Church stands as a symbol of hope. A testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit.